Mitigative effect of Momordica cymbalaria fruit extract against sodium fluoride induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar male albino rats

Objectives The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the mitigative effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Momordica cymbalaria fruits against sodium fluoride (NaF) induced hepatotoxicity. Methods In this study, Wistar male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups of six rats each. Group I and II served as normal and toxic controls. Group III as plant control received extract at a dose of 400 mg/kg b. wt, p.o and Groups IV and V as treatment groups received extract at a dose 200 and 400 mg/kg b. wt, p.o for 30 days. All groups except Groups I and III received 100 ppm of NaF through drinking water. After completion of the study, blood collected for the estimation of liver blood serum biomarkers such as aspartate aminotransferases (AST), alanine aminotransferases (ALT), alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), direct and total bilirubin, total protein and albumin. The liver tissue homogenate was for estimation of lipid peroxidation, catalase, and reduced glutathione levels. Results The results showed that NaF intoxication caused elevation of liver blood serum levels and lipid peroxidation; decreased levels of serum total protein, albumin and liver reduced glutathione, and catalase observed. The treatment groups showed decreased elevated serum biomarkers (ALT, AST, and ALP), liver lipid peroxidation and increased serum total protein and albumin, liver reduced glutathione and catalase levels in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological studies also further strongly supported for mitigative effects of the plant. Conclusions In conclusion, our findings of the study indicated that M. cymbalaria fruits were a potential drug candidate in the treatment of NaF induced hepatotoxicity.

Keywords: Momordica cymbalaria; catalase; lipid peroxidation; liver; reduced glutathione; sodium fluoride.